Connor McDavid’s Oilers receive tough update about key player amid NHL Playoffs series vs Mikko Rantanen’s Stars

The 2025 NHL Western Conference Final series between the Edmonton Oilers and the Dallas Stars has been a high-level showdown featuring two standout stars in Connor McDavid and Mikko Rantanen. However, other key players could tip the balance, and the Canadian team may end up regretting the loss of a crucial contributor.

Despite the high expectations surrounding Rantanen—who was acquired by the Stars in a major trade with the Carolina Hurricanes and signed to an eight-year deal—the Dallas star has recorded only two assists through the first four games of the series against the Oilers so far.

Meanwhile, McDavid is having an outstanding postseason, leading the Oilers toward a potential second consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearance. In 15 playoff games, the Edmonton forward has tallied 24 points, with 5 goals and 19 assists. Still, he’ll be without another key forward moving forward.

Who is the player that will miss the rest of the playoffs?

The key Oilers player who will miss the remainder of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs is none other than forward Zach Hyman, who will be sidelined due to surgery for an upper-body injury. McDavid’s linemate won’t be available against the Stars or in a potential Stanley Cup Final.

Hyman’s injury occurred during the first period of Game 4 of the Western Conference Final against the Stars, when he was hit by Mason Marchment. Although he tried to avoid the impact, his right arm was affected, forcing him to leave the ice immediately. Hours later, his final diagnosis was confirmed.

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Hyman’s impact on the Oilers

Before the injury, Hyman had proven to be a crucial piece of Edmonton’s offense, tallying 11 points (five goals and six assists) in 15 postseason games. He also led all playoff players in hits, with a total of 111. His absence will be a significant blow to the Oilers.